No one spoke for a moment.
Then Commander Callahan leaned back.
“Madison Parker,” he said. “Daughter of Master Sergeant Michael Parker and Lieutenant Colonel Rebecca Parker.”
My pulse remained steady, but barely.
“Yes, sir.”
His eyes narrowed slightly.
“You don’t seem surprised that I know that.”
“My parents have both served long enough to be known in certain circles, sir.”
A faint smile touched his mouth.
“That’s one way to put it.”
Captain Hayes opened the folder.
“Midshipman Parker, footage involving you and several upperclassmen has circulated online. The Academy is conducting a formal inquiry.”
“I understand, ma’am.”
Commander Sloane folded his hands.
“The video shows physical contact initiated against you. It also shows verbal harassment. You did not retaliate.”
“No, sir.”
“Why not?”
I looked at him.
“Because retaliation would have changed the focus.”
The legal officer lifted his pen.
